Mayo community mourns passing of dedicated political activist

THE death of Anthony Vesey, Graffymore, Castlebar, and Dooagh, Achill, is widely mourned in the community.

He is very deeply regretted by his parents Tom and Imelda, brother Tommy, Nannie Mary Vesey, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, neighbours and many friends, to whom deepest sympathy is tendered.

The deceased, who frequently used his Irish name Anton Mac An Bheatha, stood as an independent candidate in the 2019 local elections in the Castlebar Municipal District.

He was proud, as a Mayo activist for the Irish Republican Social Party, to have delivered much vital PPE to the frontline staff at Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar in recent weeks with a commitment to continue to do so 'until the virus is beaten'.

A tribute to him on the Irish Republican Socialist Party Facebook page stated: “Anthony was a dedicated member of the IRSP and was a vital component in the reorganisation of the party in Co. Mayo.

“Anthony dedicated every spare minute of time he had to the cause of republican socialism in Ireland.

“A fantastic orator, organiser and dedicated activist, he always brought a smile and a laugh.

“Right up until his death, Anthony was highly involved in acquiring and distribution of Republican Socialist Aid, a testament to his personality, dedication and working class politics.

“We send our heartfelt condolences to all his family, friends and comrades.

“He will be sadly missed by everyone.”

In a tribute, People Before Profit Mayo said it was shocked and saddened to hear of Anthony's passing.

“Anthony, a student of James Connolly and Seamus Costello, used Costello's tactic of the broad front to great effect, campaigning alongside PBP and other groups on the broad left.

"He will be greatly missed here in Mayo for his drive, enthusiasm and overwhelming optimism.

“The image of him below delivery PPE to the staff of Mayo University Hospital says it all.

“Condolences to Anthony's family, friends and comrades in the IRSP," the tribute stated.

Anthony's Funeral Mass will take place in St. Patrick's Church, Pollagh, Achill, with burial afterwards in Slievemore Cemetery.

Due to the HSE and government guidelines the funeral at all stages will be private for immediate family only.